Sen. Al Franken says more than 123,000 Minnesotans are benefiting from insurance rebates under a provision he sponsored in the federal health law, even though some won't get checks in the mail.

Franken held a Capitol news conference in St. Paul Monday to praise the provision based on a Minnesota law. It requires insurers that don't spend at least 80 percent of premiums on direct health care costs to rebate the difference.

Many of the rebates due Aug. 1 went to employers that purchase health insurance for employees.

Employers can return the money to workers or use it to reduce future premiums.

Franken couldn't say how many of those who benefit will see checks of their own. But he says the provision is forcing insurers to reduce premiums in general.